Batey's 6speed Turbo

My lease is up next october, and I cant afford to buy my car out. I have narrowed my list down to 3 cars. The list included 01 540 Manual, B5 S4, B6 3.0QM, Malibu SS, cobalt SS/SC, 330i manual, ect. I have come down to GTI 2/4 door, A3, and GTO. I know that GTI 4 door and A3 are very similar, but havent driven one in a long time. Give me your thoughts.

It seems used GTIs and A3s are pulling similar prices of around 20k depending on options, all with under 15k in miles. Which weighs more? I read the A3 is like 3250, and GTI is around 3100-3150. Does that sound right? also, would you rate the interior better in the Audi? From the pics, it looks a step above in materials. Also does the Open sky option add alot of weight? is it just two sunroofs? can you open the one over the rear seats? Would you buy it again? Also, how is the sport package? it seems to be worth the money for the suspension and seets, and two toned wheels. Also, to those with ecu flashes, can you even use first gear? any traction without quattro?

I guess I am just looking for general comments and the answers to a few on the thousands of ?s I just asked.

TIA

April

DSG weighs more than the stick, and yes, if you make quick changes of direction, you can feel the extra weight of Open Sky.

Interior is a matter of choice, but most folks feel the A3's is nicer.

You also get the choice of things like ordering low profile integrated roof rails, homelink, xenons that rotate with your steering direction, and I think MP3 player via memory stick is an Audi only option.